Forgotten Gratitude

When told to count your blessings, many things may come to mind, or just a few. There are some things we should be grateful for that we often forget. 

Safety- whether it's coming back safe from a drive or a walk, living in a war free territory, or away from natural disasters.

Health- though a lot of us have multiple health issues, physical and mental, there are so many other issues that we do not suffer from.

Wealth- wealth is relative, what may be poor in one location is rich in another location. Having access to running water, electricity, internet, food, and health care are all signs of being quite well off compared to most of earthly life. Also the wealth of good family and friends, even if it is only one person. 

If we could all take some extra time to be grateful for that which seems ordinary this month, we can heal our hearts a little. 

Light In The Darkness

There is much turmoil in the world today. We constantly see it on the news, talk about it with friends and family, or avoid talking about it to keep the peace politically. It can make us feel hopeless and helpless sometimes. What can we do to stop the terrible things happening all over the world and right in our own neighborhoods? Honestly, there's really not much we can do to stop it, but we can spread our own influence of goodness. While the news shares mostly negative actions, we can share positive actions to lighten our own lives and the lives of those around us.

Every time you are kind to the cashier at the store, smile at someone passing you on the sidewalk, hold open a door for someone else, or are helpful to your own family, you are making a difference for good. Small acts of kindness remind others that there are good people in the world doing good things still. It can give people hope and courage. 

We also make a difference for good by not doing evil things. By not being the person who causes fear and anger in others, we leave the world a better place. Negative things left unsaid or undone can be just as powerful as positive things said and done, but only you know the control you used to keep peace in the world. 

Be a light in the darkness to give yourself and others a reason to keep on going strong with help and hope.